Stem Cell Research on Potential Treatment Method for Neonatal Brain Disorder Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy

Abstract

Despite the groundbreaking scientific breakthroughs occurring today, Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE) is still one of the most significant causes of fatalities of neonates worldwide. HIE is a type of brain injury that results in neonates losing oxygen and blood flow to the brain. There is currently only one form of treatment for HIE, induced hypothermia. This type of treatment works by delaying the depolarization of anoxic cells so that the affected cell will not go into apoptosis as quickly as it would without treatment. The issue with this treatment is that it is not reliable and only works on neonates with mild to moderate cases of HIE, with little impact on severe cases. Current research suggests mesenchymal stem cells are potential new treatment for HIE due to their ability to be able to differentiate into different types of cells. This review discusses the current research being conducted on stem cells as a potential addition to the already existing treatment method of induced hypothermia, as well as the possible complications and restrictions of using stem cells as a potential treatment method.